[France] Avignon: Papal Palace and Cathedral

#SummerCampaign The Papal Palace (Papacy) is the largest Gothic palace in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Papal Palace was built between 1335 and 1364. Later, the palace became the property of the Vatican, but gradually deteriorated. The French Revolution made matters even worse, with most of the furniture and artwork destroyed or looted, leaving nothing behind. Portions were later used as prisons and barracks, but in 1906 the barracks were completely demolished. Today, the palace is a national museum, with 25 areas open to the public, including the Great Hall, the Chapel, the Inner Courtyard Gallery, and the Pope's private apartments, decorated with priceless frescoes. The Old Palace is a large palace with corridors and defensive walls, and has a simple impression with little decoration. The New Palace was later expanded, with an opulent interior featuring frescoes, tapestries, paintings, and sculptures. Inside is the Great Chapel (52 meters long, 20 meters high), reserved for the Pope. The Cathedral of Notre-Dame-des-Doms, located adjacent to the left side of the Palais des Papes, is known for its magnificent Romanesque architecture. It's easily recognizable thanks to its striking golden statue of the Virgin Mary. The Cathedral of Notre-Dame-des-Doms is part of the Historic Centre of Avignon and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission to the Palace of the Popes: 15 euros Palais des Papes, Avignon Plais du Palais, 84000 Avignon, France Cathedral of Notre-Dame-des-Doms Cathedral de Notre-Dame des Doms Place du Palais des Papes, 84000 Avignon #Travel in France #SouthernFrance